Compare complete supplier baskets.
Why can the cheapest quote on each item fail to give the cheapest delivered basket?
Use the matching calculator
Use this decision sequence
- Use equivalent specified items and already-rounded purchase quantities.
- Enter a quote for every item from each supplier.
- Add each supplier’s basket delivery charge once.
- Compare whole baskets before considering a split order with additional deliveries.
Keep the quantities distinct
| Quantity or assumption | How to use it |
|---|---|
| Per-item winner | Ignores the deliveries caused by splitting. |
| Whole basket | Adds one quoted basket delivery for each supplier. |
| Unknown quote | Must stay missing rather than become a free item. |
Worked comparison
Ten units at $10 and five units at $20 cost $200 from A; $20 delivery gives $220. The same quantities at $12 and $15 cost $195 from B; $30 delivery gives $225. Supplier A’s delivered basket is $5 lower.
Check before using the estimate
Equivalent price comparisons assume you have already checked product compatibility.
All dimensions, product properties, prices and specifications in this example are illustrative arithmetic inputs. Use the values from your measured plan, selected product data sheet and supplier quote. This guide does not choose construction specifications or certify safety.
Calculation and scope checked 2026-10-04. Methods and scope.
Related decisions
A small requirement change can add an entire purchase pack
Why is a cost range wider than a proportional quantity range?
Rebase only the cost portion tied to a supplied index
Why can applying an index ratio to the full estimate overstate an adjustment?
Price whole purchase packs
Why does multiplying exact need by a unit price understate a store purchase?
Separate supplier minimum value from quantity need
Why may a minimum-order value add packs after quantity rounding?